Posted by Some cultures are more hospitable than others. This is something we can not ignore.
Coming from a northern European country, we have a tendency to be a bit more standoffish, and cool, when we meet strangers. Normally this is unintentional. Depending of course of the individual countries, but all in all, northern Europeans are a bit more…..shy, when it comes to meeting strangers.
Southern Europeans are a more social people (culture) than we northerners are, and I guess have developed their hospitality.
But when you come to South East Asia the first time, you really feel the difference. And I am sure 99% of all visitors to, lets say Thailand (like this example), have experienced this. Sure, Thailand is not unique in this regards, but I have a closer connection to that country.
I noticed very quickly this was not just a one time only. Again and again, I would feel the same hospitality, and welcoming smiles from the locals.
Sure, the bigger cities are changing faster and faster, and become more international. Luckily the peoples’ attitude is not changing that fast.
Oh how I miss Thailand now.
Rgds, Sailor
The Traveller 
One comment